As nature enthusiasts, we are often drawn to the captivating beauty of the natural world, seeking to capture its essence through the lens of our cameras. Today, I'm excited to share with you the story behind an enchanting butterfly photo that graces the month of May in my brand new 2024 nature photography calendar. This captivating image transports us to a midsummer's day at my old school, where a hidden wilderness gem lay tucked away – the orchard. This enchanting haven served as my sanctuary, where I spent countless hours immersed in nature's embrace, my camera ever-present, documenting the beauty that surrounded me. One warm summer afternoon, my exploration led me to an overgrown patch teeming with vibrant plants and fluttering butterflies – a butterfly garden! Amidst this kaleidoscope of colours, my eyes fell upon a stunning orange comma butterfly, basking gracefully in the sunlight. Its wings, a symphony of delicate patterns, shimmered under the sun's golden rays. With my trusty macro lens in hand, I slowly approached this exquisite creature, capturing its ethereal beauty as its wings unfolded like a delicate fan. Each click of the shutter immortalised a moment of pure magic, a testament to the life in this hidden oasis. This encounter with nature's artistry remains etched in my memory, a reminder of the profound beauty that exists all around us. It is this unwavering appreciation for nature's wonders that fuels my passion for photography, inspiring me to capture these moments and share them with the world. As you gaze upon this butterfly's grace, let it transport you to a place of tranquility, a reminder of the extraordinary beauty that nature holds. I invite you to join me on this journey of exploration and discovery through my 2024 nature photography calendar. A Token of Appreciation To express my heartfelt gratitude to those who have already purchased my 2024 nature photography calendar, I am offering a 10% discount on next year's calendar. Your support means the world to me, and I cherish the opportunity to share my passion for nature with you. Don't Miss Out! 48 hours until final sale The final sale date for my 2024 nature photography calendar is approaching fast – seize this opportunity to add this enchanting collection to your own nature library. Immerse yourself in the beauty of the natural world as you flip through the pages, each month unveiling a new chapter in nature's grand tapestry. https://www.jacobwatsonhowland.com/store.html Explore My Latest Creations: Calendar and Christmas Cards: As the year draws to a close, embrace the spirit of the season with my captivating wildlife-themed calendar and heartfelt Christmas cards. Each image captures the essence of nature's beauty, inviting you to reflect on the interconnectedness of all living things. Visit my store section before it’s too late! https://www.jacobwatsonhowland.com/store.html Happy Monday! I hope you enjoyed this glimpse into the story behind my butterfly photo. As you embark on your own nature adventures ,may you discover moments of wonder and inspiration that forever enrich your life. Together, let's embark on a journey of discovery, embracing the beauty of wildlife and cultivating a sense of well-being. Jacob J. Watson-Howland, often referred to as Nature with Jacob, is a passionate nature photographer/filmmaker, content creator, and writer who is dedicated to sharing the beauty of the natural world with others. Through his stunning photography, captivating videos, weekly newsletter and inspiring stories, Jacob helps people connect with nature and cultivate a sense of well-being.
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Picture this: a rugged coastline, kissed by the Atlantic Ocean's waves, teeming with diverse wildlife. Amidst this picturesque backdrop, I embarked on a mission to capture the essence of a rare and elusive bird, the chough. Join me as I delve into the heart of Lizard Point, a haven for nature enthusiasts, and discover whether my quest for the captivating chough proved successful. Introduction The allure of the natural world is undeniable, drawing us in with its promise of adventure, discovery, and a chance to connect with something far grander than ourselves. This week, I embarked on a nature photo-expedition to Lizard Point, the southernmost tip of mainland England, a place renowned for its diverse wildlife and breathtaking landscapes. My goal was simple yet ambitious: to capture the essence of this rugged coastline and its inhabitants, with a particular focus on the elusive chough, a captivating red-billed bird known for its acrobatic aerial displays. Lizard Point: A Haven for Wildlife Lizard Point is a haven for wildlife, boasting a rich tapestry of habitats that support an array of fascinating creatures. From the rugged cliffs that plunge into the Atlantic Ocean to the windswept heathlands and lush grasslands, each ecosystem plays a vital role in sustaining this vibrant community of life. In Pursuit of the Chough My primary objective was to encounter and photograph the chough, a charismatic member of the crow family known for its distinctive red bill and long, curved tail feathers. These remarkable birds are a rare sight in many parts of the UK, but Lizard Point is one of their strongholds. Preparation is Key As with nature expedition, careful preparation was essential. I meticulously planned my route, considering the time of day, weather conditions, and potential challenges. I packed my camera equipment, binoculars and enough food and water to sustain me throughout the day. Embarking on the Adventure With my pack slung over my shoulder and anticipation buzzing through my veins, I set out on my journey. The landscape unfolded before me, a tapestry of rolling hills, windswept heathlands, and dramatic cliffs. The air was alive with the sounds of nature: the chirping of birds, the rustling of leaves, and the roar of the ocean. Encountering the Chough As I ventured deeper into the wilds of Lizard Point, I kept my eyes peeled for any sign of the elusive chough all day. My patience was rewarded when I spotted a pair perched atop a rocky outcrop! Their bright red bills and graceful movements were a sight to behold. I carefully positioned myself and captured a series of photographs, documenting their behaviour and the beauty of their surroundings. Other Wildlife Encounters While my primary focus was on the chough, I was delighted to encounter other captivating creatures along the way. Rock pipits flitted among the rocks, their cheerful melodies filling the air. Rabbits scampered through the undergrowth, their twitching noses and fluffy tails adding a touch of whimsy to the landscape. And high above, a kestrel hovered effortlessly, its keen eyes scanning the terrain for prey. Outcomes and Reflections My nature expedition to Lizard Point was a resounding success. I captured stunning photographs of the chough, documenting their behaviour and the rugged beauty of their habitat. But more than that, I gained a deeper appreciation for the intricate web of life that thrives in this corner of Cornwall. I encourage you to embark on your own nature expeditions, exploring the natural wonders that lie close to home. With careful planning and a sense of curiosity, you too can discover the hidden treasures that await in the wild. So, grab your camera, pack your backpack, and set off on an adventure of your own. You never know what extraordinary encounters await you. If you enjoyed this nature content... Become Wild, Wise and Well every week:
Embrace the wild side with my weekly newsletter! Immerse yourself in wildlife photography, nature-inspired activities, health tips, and philosophical insights. Learn knowledge from experts and connect with fellow enthusiasts. Gain wisdom from the wild and cultivate a healthier, happier you. https://naturewithjacob.substack.com Explore My Latest Creations: Calendar and Christmas Cards: As the year draws to a close, embrace the spirit of the season with my captivating wildlife-themed calendar and heartfelt Christmas cards. Each image captures the essence of nature's beauty, inviting you to reflect on the interconnectedness of all living things. Visit my store section before it’s too late! https://www.jacobwatsonhowland.com/store.html Join the Wildlife & Wellness Community I invite you to join me in fostering a community of nature enthusiasts and wellness seekers. Share your unique perspective by becoming our Reader of the Week and collaborate with me to spread the message of environmental stewardship and holistic well-being. https://www.jacobwatsonhowland.com/contact.html Follow My Adventures on Instagram Delve into the captivating world of wildlife photography and explore the wonders of nature through my Instagram feed, @naturewithjacob. https://www.instagram.com/naturewithjacob/ Together, let's embark on a journey of discovery, embracing the beauty of wildlife and cultivating a sense of well-being. Jacob J. Watson-Howland, often referred to as Nature with Jacob, is a passionate nature photographer/filmmaker, content creator, and writer who is dedicated to sharing the beauty of the natural world with others. Through his stunning photography, captivating videos, weekly newsletter and inspiring stories, Jacob helps people connect with nature and cultivate a sense of well-being. Comment your favourite photo I took on my trip below! In the realm of human perception, rats often occupy a realm of negativity, associated with disease, pests, and urban squalor. However, beneath this veil of misconception lies a fascinating world of intelligence, social complexity, and ecological significance. Through my photographic journey into a compost heap, I've captured images that unveil the hidden charm of these creatures, challenging ingrained perceptions and fostering a deeper appreciation for their unique existence. In this week's blog we will delve into the fascinating world of rat photography and capture the charm and intelligence of these often-misunderstood creatures.
As I ventured into the compost heap, the air was filled with the earthy aroma of decaying organic matter. It was a hidden world teeming with life, a microcosm of nature's resilience amidst the backdrop of our urban landscapes. And there, amidst the remnants of our daily lives, I encountered them – the rats...
Autumn is a truly magical time of year, with its stunning orange landscapes, fantastic fungi, and super sunrises and sunsets. But with the season passing by so quickly, it's important to make the most of it and capture its beauty in stunning photos
In this weeks blog post, we'll explore everything you need to know about photographing autumn, from choosing the right camera gear to finding the perfect subjects. I'll also provide tips for capturing stunning landscapes, fungi, and birds.
I gazed into an ancient orchard with a peculiar feeling of fondness, but I was perplexed and uncertain to where this feeling of such familiarity for such an unfamiliar place had arisen from in my mind? It was only until my dad told me I’d been here when I was very very young & played in it before in the past that I found the real reason why this place had sparked a feeling of such in me. A formative memory had been unlocked from my subconscious. Nevertheless, it’s still odd as I have no visual recollection of this place in my mind, just a warm nostalgic feeling attached to it. Yet my subconscious mind must’ve recognised it as I’d unknowingly been here before. Weird ! At first glance, it reminded me of the 100 acre wood in Winnie the Pooh. I now imagine it on a summers day when the green foliage & wildflowers have emerged & the butterflies glide softly as the birds sing from the treetops. I’m sitting underneath an old apple tree, it’s just me a book, a pen and my thoughts. 💭 A nostalgic feeling from my formative years, accompanied by a separate vivid visualisation. It feels so tangible, yet it’s a visualisation I’ve never experienced to date. Have you had any feelings like this, or any emotional attachments to a specific place in nature? Comment yours below I’d love to know🍃👇I feel grateful for these attachments, it’s one of the best ways to stay connected with Nature (as is following me on my blog and social media of course!😆) By Jacob Watson-HowlandI'm a young natural history filmmaker writer and photographer from the UK, I make nature-based content and products that make you feel more connected to nature, regardless of where you may be! I hope my work inspires you to become more involved in nature and protecting it. Make sure to check out my store and social media (both of which can be four on here), I'm sure you'll love it! |
AuthorJacob J. Watson-Howland is a fine art photographer, writer and entrepeuner from the UK. He's written for established organisations like the RSPB, and is featured in multiple high-end photo publications such as Digital Photographers Magazine and in Bradt Guides '9 of the best young wildlife photographers'. Archives
June 2024
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